How to seamlessly expand your patio without tearing up the old one
In short: Expanding your outdoor living space doesn't require a total demolition. By building onto your existing concrete, you can create a modern, spacious backyard hangout. Master mason Mark McCullough reveals a professional method for integrating new granite pavers into your current layout for a clean, contemporary finish.
The most efficient way to grow an outdoor space is to leave the existing structure intact and build directly onto it. This approach avoids unnecessary demolition and allows for a seamless transition. Before any digging begins, the first critical step is to map the design on grid paper. This allows you to measure your new pavers and plan how they will sit alongside the old patio, ensuring even spacing and a cohesive look.
Once the design is set, you must mark the perimeter and contact a local utility locator to prevent damaging underground lines. After excavating the topsoil, the foundation requires a robust base of crusher run. This material should be spread to a thickness of approximately 6 inches and then compacted using a tamper or a compactor to ensure a level surface.
To achieve a professional finish, use a leveling technique involving two pipes of equal diameter to represent the required thickness of the stone dust. After spreading the dust, use a 2x4 to shimmy the surface until it is perfectly flat. When laying the pavers, use small 2x4 scraps to maintain consistent gaps, and tap them into position with a mallet.
For a modern aesthetic, you can fill the gaps between the stones with precut strips of synthetic grass, secured with landscaping spikes. This method transforms a simple expansion into a deliberate design feature, providing both structural integrity and visual interest.
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- Summary by Intellect · source: How to Extend a Patio | Ask This Old House
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